Jack M. Deucker, known to many as "Afro Jack," "Jackyl," or lovingly as "Jacky" by his sister, passed away on November 22, 2025, in Helena, Montana, at the age of 66. Born August 3, 1959, in Alton, Illinois, Jack came into the world exactly three years after his beloved big sister Ellie (Eulanda Sommers). The bond they shared—climbing trees, building puzzles, and simply being together—was one of the great joys of his youth.

Jack attended Bishop Hogan High School in Alton and later continued his education at Lewis and Clark Community College. On May 6, 1988, he married the love of his life, with whom he built a family rooted in love, laughter, and deep connection. Together they welcomed their first child, Jack Jr., while living in Alton. In 1996, the family moved to Albany, Oregon, where their daughter, Jenna Mae, was born in February 1998. When Jenna was just six months old, they relocated to Helena, Montana, where they later completed their family with the birth of their son Timothy in February 2004.

Jack is survived by his wife, his three children—Jack Jr., Jenna Mae, and Timothy—and his siblings Ellie (Eulanda Sommers), Barbara Ann, and Curtis. He was preceded in death by family members including his mother who no doubt welcomed him with open arms.

To know Jack was to love him. He had the biggest heart of anyone you could meet—warm, generous, and endlessly approachable. Whether in the grocery store, at a barbecue, or anywhere in public, he seemed to run into someone he knew, and it was never just a quick hello. An hour-long conversation full of laughter and stories was simply part of who he was.

Jack loved to barbecue, and music was always a part of his world. He especially enjoyed Lynyrd Skynyrd, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, and Johnny Cash. He was also famously proud of his hair—his iconic afro that earned him the name "Afro Jack" and made him instantly recognizable and unforgettable.

Jack was a devoted husband, an incredible father, a caring brother, and a friend to everyone who crossed his path. No one ever had a bad word to say about him—his presence made the world brighter, and his absence will be felt deeply by all who knew him.

He will be remembered with love, laughter, and gratitude for the many ways he touched the lives around him.

Celebration of Life:

The family will be celebrating Jack's life in the spring/early summer with a barbecue in his honor—just the way he would have wanted. All who cared about him are warmly invited to join, share stories, laugh, and remember the man who brought so much heart into the world. Details will be announced once plans are finalized.